After years of planning and widespread community support, the new Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science today broke ground in Downtown Miami’s Museum Park on the 24th of February. The groundbreaking ceremony took place at the museum’s new site overlooking Biscayne Bay, marking the continuation of Miami’s rise as one of the world’s most culturally rich cities. The groundbreaking event marks the beginning of construction, with the new museum scheduled to open to the public by early 2015.

"Great cities are home to top tier museums. The new Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science will elevate Miami into this rank while contributing to the city’s emergence as a major international destination for culture and innovation,” said Trish and Dan Bell, co-chairs of the Museum’s Board of Trustees. “Our new building should serve as a delightful gathering place for residents and visitors, and we look forward to the Museum greatly enhancing the motivation for science and technology education in the community. It will also be an outstanding economic and architectural asset for the city."

Designed by internationally recognized Grimshaw Architects, the 250,000 square-foot complex will be among the world’s most innovative and sustainable science museums. According to Grimshaw the Museum is intended to act as a demonstration of ecological and sustainability principles. The building will harness energy from water, sun, wind and even museum visitors to power exhibits and conserve resources.

“We are delighted that the new Miami Science Museum has reached this exciting milestone,” said Grimshaw partner Vincent Chang. “As designers we began a journey three years ago and have seen wonderful ideas from so many contributors coalesce into a truly innovative museum. A museum in which the building itself serves as a significant exhibit, welcoming interaction and showcasing an optimistic story of environmental responsiveness.”